When it comes to NEET, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for medical admissions in India. Also known as NEET-UG, it’s the single gate to over 90% of medical seats across the country—whether you’re in Tamil Nadu or Uttar Pradesh. But here’s the thing: NEET isn’t the same everywhere. The difficulty, competition, and even the way students prepare change drastically depending on which Indian state you’re in.
Some states like Uttar Pradesh, home to the largest number of NEET aspirants in India, have over 500,000 students competing for a few thousand seats. Meanwhile, smaller states like Goa, with fewer applicants and state-specific quotas, give you a better shot at getting into a government college. The cutoffs? They’re not national—they’re state-by-state. A rank that lands you in AIIMS Delhi might only get you a private seat in Bihar. And the coaching? It’s concentrated in cities like Delhi, a hub for top-tier NEET institutes with decades of results, Hyderabad, where affordable coaching clusters thrive, and Kota, the legendary crash-course capital that churns out top ranks every year.
What you need to know isn’t just how to memorize biology or crack physics problems—it’s knowing where to go, who you’re up against, and what your real chances are based on your state. If you’re from Maharashtra, you’re competing in one of the most saturated markets. If you’re from Northeast India, you might have lower competition but fewer coaching options. Your state determines your cutoff, your competition level, and even your access to quality study material. That’s why picking the right city for preparation matters as much as your study plan. Some students move to Kota or Delhi for coaching. Others stay home and rely on online courses. Both can work—but only if you understand the landscape.
Below, you’ll find real insights from students who’ve cracked NEET across different states. We’ve pulled together guides on the best cities for prep, how to target your rank based on your state, and what coaching actually delivers. No fluff. Just what you need to make a smart move before the next exam.
The NEET examination has been a point of controversy in India with several states expressing opposition. Discover the reasons behind this backlash and which regions are leading the charge. Learn how their opposition affects students and the medical education landscape. This information is crucial for anyone involved in NEET preparation or interested in India's educational policies.